Low profile prosthetic foot

ABSTRACT

A low profile prosthetic foot comprises a foot member extending at an incline from an anterior portion to a posterior portion thereof and configured to flex during motion, and an adapter mounted solely at a posterior section thereof to the posterior portion of the foot member so that the adapter&#39;s anterior section can move relative to the foot member and “roll-up” onto the foot member during motion.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

Embodiments of the present invention relate to lower limb prostheses ingeneral, and, in one embodiment, to a prosthetic foot having an adapterconnected to a foot member, the adapter configured to provide improvedfoot member flexion.

2. Description of the Related Art

Prosthetic feet of different designs are well known in the art. Thevarious conventional designs have sought to solve various limitationsassociated with prosthetic feet.

Some conventional designs attempt to provide the feel and fluid range ofmotion of a human foot's natural stride. One approach is to incorporatesprings to store and release energy during motion of the prostheticfoot. Such springs can be of different shapes, such as C-shaped orU-shaped. However, such foot designs tend to be bulky and may bedifficult to wholly contain in a cosmesis. Additionally, in someinstances the efficiency of the springs may deteriorate followingprolonged use, resulting in less efficient energy storage and releaseduring motion of the foot.

Other conventional designs attempt to provide the flexibility andstability of a human foot. One approach is to provide a foot member thatis split along at least a portion of its length. The split foot memberis thus composed of individual “toes” that are capable of flexingsubstantially independently of each other. This provides a prostheticfoot with increased stability. However, a split-toe foot alone may notprovide the desired fluid range of motion of a human foot's naturalstride.

Still other designs attempt to provide a strong and resilient prostheticfoot capable of accommodating a wide a range of activity levels, such aswalking, running, and jumping, by focusing on the strength of theprosthetic foot. Accordingly, various materials have been used in themanufacture of prostheses to provide the desired strength as well asweight. However, many prosthetic foot designs are limited to a certainimpact level and are designed for users in a certain weight range.

Yet other designs are directed to particular amputees. For example,Symes prosthetic foot designs are directed to amputees with longresidual limbs. However, conventional foot designs are generally notdesigned to be used by both amputees with long residual limbs and thosewith shorter residual limbs, such as above-knee amputees.

Many prosthetic foot designs are enclosed in a cosmesis to improve itsaesthetics. However, many designs are difficult to maintain whenenclosed in said cosmesis. For example, the location of the anklecomponent or pyramid on some designs makes it difficult to remove theprosthetic foot from the cosmesis or to access the bolts connecting theankle or pyramid to the prosthetic foot.

Thus, there is a need for an improved prosthetic foot that provides thedesired strength, stability, fluidity of motion, and flexibility of use.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In at least one embodiment, a prosthetic foot is configured to provide amore fluid heel-to-toe movement during foot motion. Additionally, theprosthetic foot advantageously provides a low-profile foot for use byamputees with long residual limbs, as well as by amputees with shorterresidual limbs. In at least some embodiments, the prosthetic footfurther provides increased strength and resilience.

In one embodiment, an improved adapter is provided for attachment to apylon or other leg prosthesis. The adapter is preferably mounted at aposterior section thereof to a posterior portion of a foot member, orother elongate support member, and includes an anterior portionconfigured to move relative to the foot member. In one preferredembodiment, the adapter is mounted in approximately the posterior 25% ofthe foot member, making the foot easier to remove from a cosmesis,facilitating access to the adapter and, for example, the bolts thatconnect it to the foot member. The foot member is preferably curved andoptimized to flex.

The adapter preferably has a base or lower surface that slopes at anangle corresponding generally to the angle of the rear section of thefoot member relative to a support surface. For example, where theadapter includes a pyramid, this angle is such that the pyramid isaligned generally vertically relative to the support surface when theadapter is attached to the foot member. Additionally, in one embodiment,the adapter is secured to the foot member such that the anterior sectionof the adapter is thus advantageously allowed to move toward, or“roll-up” onto the foot member during foot motion. For example, theadapter is secured to the foot member in cantilever fashion, connectedsolely at its posterior section. In one embodiment, the lower surface ofthe adapter includes a curved portion or edge defined by a radius ofcurvature proximal the anterior section of the adapter. Said radius ofcurvature can be varied to provide the desired degree of “roll-up”during motion. Additionally, the adapter advantageously can comprise avariety of structures, such as a socket, a pyramid, and a tube clampconnector.

In another embodiment, the prosthetic foot further comprises a heelmember mounted to the foot member intermediate an anterior portion andthe posterior portion of the foot member and extending rearwardlytherefrom. The heel member and foot member preferably define alongitudinal slot therebetween configured to receive a resilient wedgemember. The wedge member is configured to alter the stiffnesscharacteristics of the heel member and influence the fluidity of theheel to toe loading.

In still another embodiment, the foot member and heel member can each besplit into at least two independent members capable of flexingsubstantially independently of each other and substantially completelyabout their lengths during motion. This advantageously provides theprosthetic foot with increased stability.

In at least one embodiment, the prosthetic foot has improved strengthand resiliency. For example, in one preferred embodiment, the prostheticfoot is rated for use in all impact levels. Additionally, the prostheticfoot can be used by amputees with weights varying over a wide range.

In one embodiment, the prosthetic foot is a low profile prosthetic foot.The low profile foot comprises a foot member with a length extendingbetween a front end and a rear end of the foot member, and anterior andposterior portions. The posterior portion is inclined at an anglerelative to the anterior portion and relative to a support surface. Thefoot member also has multiple toe members configured to flexsubstantially independently of one another at least partially alongtheir length, said toe members defined by one or more longitudinal slotsextending through said foot member from the front end and rearwardlytherefrom.

The low profile prosthetic foot also comprises a heel member with alength extending from a front end to a rear end thereof, a generallyflat anterior portion, and a curved posterior portion. The anteriorportion is secured to the foot member intermediate the front and rearends of the foot member so as to define a longitudinal slot between thefoot member and the heel member. The heel member also has multiple heelsections configured to flex substantially independently of one anotherat least partially along their length, said heel sections defined by oneor more longitudinal slots extending through said heel member from itsrear end and forwardly therefrom.

Additionally, the low profile foot also comprises an adapter withanterior and posterior sections and a base, wherein the adapter isconnected solely at its posterior section to the foot member. Theanterior section is configured to move relative to the foot member.Additionally, the base is inclined relative to the support surface at anangle generally equal to the angle of the posterior portion of the footmember relative to the support surface. At least a portion of the baseis configured to contact the posterior portion of the foot member. Thebase defines an edge having a radius of curvature at the anteriorsection, wherein the anterior section is configured to roll-up alongsaid edge onto the foot member.

In another embodiment, the prosthetic foot is a low profile prostheticfoot comprising a foot member that extends between a front end and arear end thereof and has an anterior and posterior portions, wherein theposterior portion is inclined at an angle relative to the anteriorportion and a support surface. The low profile prosthetic foot alsocomprises a heel member that connects to the foot member at a pointintermediate the front and rear ends of the foot member and extendsrearwardly therefrom. Further, the low profile prosthetic foot comprisesan adapter with anterior and posterior sections and a base, wherein theadapter connects at its posterior section to the posterior portion ofthe foot member. The anterior section is adapted to move relative to thefoot member. The base of the heel member is also inclined at an anglerelative to the support surface, wherein at least a portion of the baseis configured to contact the posterior portion of the foot member. Thebase also defines an edge having a radius of curvature at the anteriorsection, wherein the anterior section is configured to roll-up alongsaid edge onto the foot member.

In still another embodiment, the prosthetic foot is a low profileprosthetic foot comprising a foot support that extends between a frontend and a rear end and has anterior and posterior portions, wherein theposterior portion is inclined at an angle relative to a support surface.The low profile prosthetic foot also comprises a heel support connectedto the foot support. Additionally, the prosthetic foot comprises anadapter with anterior and posterior sections and a base, wherein thebase is inclined at an angle relative to the support surface. Theadapter is mounted to the posterior portion of the foot support. Atleast a portion of the base is configured to contact the posteriorportion of the foot support, while the anterior section is configured tomove relative to the foot support.

In yet another embodiment, an adapter is provided for use in connectinga prosthetic foot to a socket, intermediate prosthesis, such as a pylon,or the like. The adapter comprises a pyramid provided at an upperportion of the adapter, wherein the pyramid defines an axis that extendsgenerally vertically through said pyramid relative to a support surface.The adapter also comprises a base provided at a lower portion of theadapter that extends along a length of the adapter. The base has aninclined surface that inclines upward from an anterior section to aposterior section of the adapter relative to a support surface. The basealong the anterior section has a roll-up surface adapted to allowrelative motion between the adapter and the prosthetic foot when theadapter is connected to the prosthetic foot.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a prosthetic foot in accordance withone embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2A is a side view of the prosthetic foot embodiment illustrated inFIG. 1.

FIG. 2B is an enlarged view of the adapter illustrated in FIG. 2A.

FIG. 3 is a top view of the prosthetic foot embodiment illustrated inFIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a front elevational view of the prosthetic foot embodimentillustrated in FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a rear elevational view of the prosthetic foot embodimentillustrated in FIG. 1.

FIG. 6A is a side view of another embodiment of a prosthetic footcomprising a resilient wedge.

FIG. 6B is a profile view of the resilient wedge illustrated in FIG. 6.

FIG. 7 is a side view of another embodiment of a prosthetic footincluding a different adapter.

FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of a prosthetic foot in accordance withanother embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 9 is a side view of the prosthetic foot illustrated in FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 is a top view of the prosthetic foot illustrated in FIG. 8.

FIG. 11 is a front view of the prosthetic foot illustrated in FIG. 8.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

FIGS. 1-2A illustrate one embodiment of a prosthetic foot 100.Preferably, the prosthetic foot 100 comprises a foot member or support10 which may have an elongate configuration having a length L extendingbetween a front end 12 and a rear end 14. As used herein, length Lrefers to the horizontal length of the foot member 10 along a planeparallel to a support surface S on which the prosthetic foot 100 rests.In one embodiment, the length L may be between about 18 and 30 cm,corresponding to the specific size of the prosthetic foot 100. In onepreferred embodiment, the length L is about 23 cm. The ends 12, 14 ofthe foot member 10 preferably have rounded or curved edges. The footmember 10 preferably also comprises an anterior portion 12 a and aposterior portion 14 a, wherein the anterior portion 12 a can include afront toe portion 12 b. In one preferred embodiment, the foot member 10can be generally shaped like the sole of a human foot and the length Lbe approximately equal to that of a natural human foot. Alternatively,the foot member 10 may be shorter. In addition, the foot member 10 maycomprise multiple pieces separated, for example, transversely orlongitudinally from each other. In another embodiment, the foot member10 may be an integral piece, may be substantially flat, and have asubstantially rectangular traverse cross-section along its length L.

As shown in FIG. 1, the foot 100 further comprises a heel member 20,which may have an elongate configuration extending rearwardly from alocation on the foot member 10 intermediate the front end 12 and rearend 14. Optionally, the heel member 20 can extend beyond the rear end 14of the foot member 10. Like the foot member 10, heel member 20 may besubstantially flat and have a substantially rectangular traversecross-section along its length. Although the heel member 20 is depictedas only extending from an intermediate location between the front end 12and rear end 14 of the foot member 10, it will be appreciated that theheel member 20 may be part of a foot member that extends substantiallyfrom heel-to-toe. Like the foot member 10, the heel member 20 (or anyfoot member that it may be a part of) need not be one integral piece,and can comprise multiple pieces separated, for example, transversely orlongitudinally from one another. It will also be appreciated that theheel member 20 need not be an elongate member, and can have otherconfigurations to provide heel support. In some embodiments, a separateheel member 20 may not even be necessary.

The prosthetic foot 100 also comprises an adapter 30 mounted to the footmember 10 near the rear end 14 of the foot member 10. Features of theadapter 30 will be discussed further below.

FIG. 2A shows a side view of the prosthetic foot 100 illustrated inFIG. 1. Preferably, the anterior portion 12 a of the foot member 10 isgenerally planar and extends generally parallel or horizontal relativeto the support surface S. The posterior portion 14 a is generallyinclined with respect to the anterior portion 12 a and the supportsurface S. For example, the posterior portion 14 a of the foot member 10can extend at an angle α relative to the support surface S. In onepreferred embodiment, the angle α can be between about 10 and 45degrees. More preferably, the angle α can be about 20 degrees. Saidinclined posterior portion 14 a defines a heel height H from the supportsurface S to the rear end 14. In one preferred embodiment, the heelheight H can be between about 40 and 70 mm. More preferably, the heelheight H can be about 60 mm or less.

In one preferred embodiment, the foot member 10 of FIG. 2A may extend ata constant slope (i.e., linearly) between the anterior portion 12 a andthe posterior portion 14 a of the foot member 10. In another preferredembodiment, said foot member 10 may extend in a gradual and continuousupward curve between the anterior portion 12 a and the posterior portion14 a. For example, the foot member 10 may extend at a graduallyincreasing slope between the anterior and posterior portions 12 a, 14 a.In still another preferred embodiment, the incline between the anteriorportion 12 a and posterior portion 14 a may comprise a combination ofconstant and gradually increasing slopes. For example, the foot member10 may initially extend from the anterior portion 12 a at a graduallyincreasing slope and transition to a constant slope. Similarly, the footmember may initially extend from the anterior portion 12 a at a constantslope and transition to a gradually increasing slope.

The foot member 10, as shown in FIG. 2A, is preferably made of amaterial adapted to flex during motion from heel-strike through toe-offand having the desired strength. In one preferred embodiment, the footmember 10 can be fabricated using a carbon filament with, for example,an epoxy binder. However, other filament types can be used, such asglass, Kevlar, and nylon, to ensure lightweight and structural anddynamic characteristics consistent with the amputee. Preferably, thefoot member 10 is constructed using a combination of longitudinal(lengthwise) filaments interspersed with a fraction of transversefilament to bind the longitudinal filaments together and prevent theseparation thereof under load. In one embodiment, longitudinal or90-degree filament and transverse or 0-degree filament can be used.However other filament arrangements can be used. For example,longitudinal and transverse filaments can be arranged at a variety ofangles relative to each other, such as 45 degrees. Preferably, thelongitudinal filaments are arranged in laminae that are located inimmediate contact with one another. For example, the laminae can besuperimposed on each other, maintained in operative relationship by anencapsulating polymer, and be susceptible to a bending stress determinedby the thickness of the laminae. The number of laminae preferably varieswith the size of the prosthetic foot 100. For example, the foot member10 of a smaller prosthetic foot 100 can comprise a lower number oflaminae than the foot member 10 of a larger prosthetic foot 100.Accordingly, a thickness T of the foot member 10 will vary with thenumber of laminae used to fabricated the foot 100. Further details ofmaterials suitable for use in fabricating the foot member 10 can befound in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,547,913 and 4,822,363, both of which arehereby incorporated by reference.

The foot member 10 in FIG. 2A can be fabricated using, for example,injection molding and/or the use of thermoplastic materials andprocesses, or any of a range of combinations thereof. In one preferredembodiment, chopped fiber may be blended in a thermoplastic or thermosetresin and the resulting mixture injection molded into an appropriateconfiguration. In another preferred embodiment, thermoplastic laminaemay be alternatively or additionally wound around an injection-moldedcore, or a thermoplastic resin may be injected between thermoplastic orthermoset laminae, whereby the laminates are bonded onto the injectedmaterial.

In one preferred embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2A, a crepe portion 16 isattached to the underside of the anterior portion 12 a of the footmember 10 and is aligned with the anterior portion 12 a of the footmember 10 so as to not extend past the anterior portion 12 a.Preferably, the crepe portion 16 comprises a resilient pad or cushion.For example, the crepe portion 16 can be made of a compressiblematerial. The crepe portion 16 can also be made of a porous material. Inone embodiment, the crepe portion 16 can be made of solid urethane. Inone preferred embodiment, the crepe portion 16 is attached to theanterior portion 12 a of the foot member 10 with an adhesive. However,other attachment means can be used, such as bolts, screws, and bandswrapped around the crepe portion 16 and the foot member 10. The crepeportion 16 is preferably configured to have a shape corresponding to theshape of the foot member 10. For example, the crepe portion 16 can havea rounded edge corresponding to the rounded edge of the front end 12. Inthe illustrated embodiment, the crepe portion 16 has a uniform thickness16 a. In another preferred embodiment, the crepe portion 16 can have avarying thickness (see FIG. 6A). For example, the crepe portion 16 canhave a decreasing thickness 16 a′ in the direction of the front end 12of the foot member 10. In other preferred embodiments, the foot member10 does not have a crepe portion 16 attached to it, so that the anteriorportion 12 a of the foot member 10 operatively contacts the supportsurface S.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2A, the thickness T of the footmember 10 is generally uniform from the rear end 14 to the front end 12.Preferably, the thickness T is between about 2.5 and 15 mm. Morepreferably, the thickness T is about 7 mm. In another preferredembodiment (see FIG. 6), the foot member 10 has a varying thickness T′between the front end 12 and rear end 14. For example, the thickness T′can decrease from the posterior portion 14 a to the anterior portion 12a of the foot member 10. In one preferred embodiment, the thickness T′can vary from between about 7 and 10 mm at the rear end 14 to betweenabout 2.5 and 5 mm at the front end 12. More preferably, the thicknessT′ varies between about 8 mm at the rear end 14 to about 3 mm at thefront end 12. Additionally, in one preferred embodiment, the thicknessT′ can vary in a manner similar to the thickness 16 a′ of the crepeportion 16. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, both the thickness T′ ofthe foot member 10 and the thickness 16 a′ of the crepe portion 16 candecrease toward the front end 12 of the member 10. In another embodiment(not shown), the thicknesses T′, 16 a′ can vary in opposite directions.For example, the thickness T′ can decrease toward the front end 12 ofthe foot member 10, whereas the thickness 16 a can increase toward thefront end 12. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that thevalues given above will vary with the corresponding size and lay-up ofthe prosthetic foot, as discussed above.

As best seen in FIG. 2A, in one embodiment, the heel member 20 has alength L′ extending between a front end 22 and rear end 24 and isremovably connected to the foot member 10 at a location intermediate thefront and rear ends 12, 14 of the foot member 10. Preferably, the heelmember 20 is connected to the foot member 10 via at least one connector18. In the illustrated embodiment, the connector 18 comprises two boltsthat connect the foot member 10 to an anterior portion 22 a of the heelmember 20. However, the connector 18 can comprise other structures, suchas rivets, welds, screws, and adhesives. Additionally, the connector 18can also comprise a resilient band wrapped around the foot member 10 andheel member 20. In another preferred embodiment, the heel member 20 canbe integrally formed with the foot member 10. Preferably, the heelmember 20 has a substantially rectangular traverse cross-section alongits length L′.

As shown in FIG. 2A, the heel member 20 extends from the connectionpoint rearwardly toward a posterior portion 24 a of the heel member 20.In the illustrated embodiment, the heel member 20 includes a curvedlengthwise contour, wherein the anterior portion 22 a is generally flatand the posterior portion 24 a is generally curved. For example, theposterior portion 24 a can have a generally S-shaped curve. In theillustrated embodiment, the heel member 20 has a thickness τ that variesfrom a minimum at the posterior portion 24 a to a maximum at theanterior portion 22 a. Preferably, the thickness τ varies between about2.5 and 5 mm at the posterior portion 24 a to between about 5 and 10 mmat the anterior portion 22 a. More preferably, the thickness τ variesbetween a minimum of about 3 mm at the posterior portion 24 a to amaximum of about 7 mm at the anterior portion 22 a. In another preferredembodiment (not shown), the thickness τ′ can be uniform between theposterior portion 24 a and the anterior portion 22 a. In still anotherpreferred embodiment (not shown), the maximum thickness τ can begenerally equal to the maximum thickness 16 a of the crepe portion 16 sothat the anterior portion 22 a of the heel member 20 and the crepeportion 16 provide a generally uniform contact surface C adapted tocontact the support surface S. One of ordinary skill in the art willrecognize that the values given above will vary with the correspondingsize and lay-up of the prosthetic foot, as discussed above.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1, 3 and 5, the heel member 20 can also havecurved widthwise contour. For example, the heel member 20 can have arounded or curved rear end 24 and a width W′ that varies from a minimumwidth at the rear end 24 to a maximum width at the front end 22.Preferably, the width W′ varies between about 30 and 50 mm at theposterior portion 24 a and between about 55 and 75 mm at the anteriorportion 22 a. In the illustrated embodiment, the width W′ varies betweenabout 65 mm at the anterior portion 22 a and about 50 mm at theposterior portion 24 a. In one embodiment, the width W′ can be definedby an edge 25 that gradually and continuously curves between the rearend 24 and the front end 22. In another embodiment, the edge 25 can havea linear section 25 a proximal the rear end 24 and a curved section 25 bproximal the front end 22, so that the width W′ includes a constantsection and a gradually increasing section. Preferably, the heel member20 extends rearwardly from the foot member 10 so as to define alongitudinal slot 26 between the heel member 20 and the foot member 10.The heel member 20 can be fabricated in the same manner and from thesame materials discussed above with regard to the foot member 10.Additionally, in one preferred embodiment (not shown), a crepe portioncan be attached to the posterior portion 24 a of the heel member 20 soas to contact the support surface S.

As best shown in FIG. 2A, the adapter 30 defines an anterior section 32and a posterior section 34 and has a major axis X. Additionally, theadapter 30 preferably defines a base 35 at a lower portion 30 a thereofextending from the posterior section 34 to the anterior section 32, asshown in FIG. 2B. The base 35 is preferably between about 50 and 65 mmin length. In the illustrated embodiment, the base is about 55 mm long.The base 35 is generally inclined relative to the support surface S atan angle β. Preferably, the angle β is generally equal to the angle α ofthe posterior portion 14 a relative to the support surface S. Also, inone embodiment, the incline of the base 35 generally conforms to theincline of the foot member 10. For example, if the foot member 10 has aconstant slope, as previously discussed, the base 35 of the adapter 30also preferably has said constant slope. The adapter 30 is preferablyremovably connected to the posterior portion 14 a of the foot member 10via at least one adapter connector 36. Preferably, the adapter connector36 connects the foot member 10 only to the posterior section 34 of theadapter 30. In the illustrated embodiment, the adapter connector 36comprises two bolts (see also FIG. 5). However, the adapter connector 36can comprise other structures, such as screws, rivets, welds, adhesives,and bands wrapped around the adapter 30 and the foot member 10.Additionally, in one embodiment, the adapter 30 may be permanentlyattached to the posterior portion 14 a of the foot member 10 via, forexample, an adhesive, a resin, or the like. Accordingly, in a preferredembodiment, the posterior section 34 of the adapter 30 is maintained ina fixed position relative to the foot member 10 while the anteriorsection 32 of the adapter 30 is allowed to move relative to the footmember 10 when the foot member 10 flexes. Further details are describedbelow.

As shown in FIGS. 1-2B, one embodiment of the adapter 30 comprises apyramid 37 at an upper portion 30 b thereof adapted to connect to apylon or other prosthesis (not shown). The pyramid 37 has a generallyflat top surface 37 a and at least one side surface 37 b. In theillustrated embodiment, the side surface 37 b comprises four generallyflat faces inclined relative to the axis X. However, in otherembodiments, the side surface 37 b can comprise a cylindrical surface ormay extend generally parallel to the axis X.

Optionally, the adapter 30, as shown in FIGS. 2A-2B, may define arecessed surface 38 configured to reduce the weight of the adapter 30.In the illustrated embodiment, the recessed surface 38 is a grooveformed on the anterior section 32 and extending partially around thecircumference of the adapter 30. However, the recessed surface 38 canhave other shapes, such as a circumferentially extending channel.Additionally, other means can be used to reduce the weight of theadapter 30, such as drilling holes, slots or the like.

Continuing with FIG. 2A, the adapter 30 is preferably mounted to thefoot member 10 so that it is positioned between about the posterior 20%to 33% of the foot member 10. More preferably, in one embodiment, theadapter 30 is mounted so that it is positioned in approximately theposterior 25% of the foot member 10. For example, where the length L ofthe foot member 10 is about twelve inches, the adapter is preferablymounted in the posterior three inches of the foot member 10.

As shown in FIG. 2B, the base 35 defines an edge 40 at the anteriorsection 32 of the adapter 30 and is configured to roll-up onto the footmember 10. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the edge 40curves at a radius R relative to the base 35 such that the adapter 30rolls-up onto the foot member 10 during motion of the foot 100, asdescribed below. The radius of curvature R is preferably between about0.5 and 4 cm. In the illustrated embodiment, the radius of curvature Ris about 1 cm. However, the edge 40 need not be curved or have a radiusR for the adapter to roll-up onto the foot member 10. In anotherembodiment (not shown), the base 35 of the adapter may be substantiallyflat and extend from the posterior section 34 to the anterior section 32so as to define a longitudinal gap between the base 35 and the footmember 10. Accordingly, during motion of the foot 100, the anteriorportion 32 can move relative to, or roll-up onto, the foot member 10. Inanother embodiment (not shown), the base 35 can comprise a flat portionand a curved portion. For example, the base 35 can have a generally flatportion at the posterior section 34 and a generally curved portion atthe anterior section 32. In another embodiment (not shown), the base 35can have a generally curved portion at the posterior end 34 and agenerally flat portion at the anterior section 32. In still anotherembodiment (not shown), the base 35 can comprise multiple generally flatportions, or ledges, each inclined at a different angle relative to thesupport surface S.

The adapter 30 shown in FIGS. 1-5 is preferably made of metal or metalalloys with suitable strength and stiffness characteristicscorresponding to the anticipated load on the prosthetic foot 100. Inembodiments of the prosthetic foot 100 exposed to lower or moderateloads, the adapter 30 can be made of aluminum, stainless steel, or thelike. In embodiments of the prosthetic foot 100 exposed to large loads,the adapter 30 can be made of metals such as titanium.

FIG. 6A shows one embodiment of the prosthetic foot 100 comprising atleast one resilient wedge 50. The at least one wedge 50 is preferablyremovably disposed in the slot 26 between the foot member 10 and theheel member 20. Optionally, a plurality of wedges 50 can be disposed inthe slot 26. In another preferred embodiment, the at least one wedge 50can be fixed in the slot 26 via, for example, an adhesive. Various othermeans can be used to fix the wedge 50 in the slot 26. For example, thewedge 50 can be bolted or screwed to the heel member 20 and/or the footmember 10. The at least one wedge 50 is preferably configured to provideadditional shock absorption to the prosthetic foot 100. In oneembodiment, the wedge 50 can be made, for example, of a hard plastic,such as polyurethane or polypropylene. The wedge 50 can also be made ofa more compressible material, such as foam, natural or syntheticrubbers, or the like. However, the wedge 50 can be made of any materialconfigured to provide adequate shock absorption to the prosthetic foot100. A set of such wedges 50 can also be provided, wherein each wedge 50has a different stiffness.

As illustrated in FIG. 6B, the wedge 50 extends between a front end 52and a rear end 54. In a preferred configuration, the wedge 50 has agenerally triangular longitudinal cross-section, with a top surface 56and a bottom surface 58 diverging at an angle γ from a common edge 52 aat the front end 52 toward the rear end 54. A rear face 59 connects thetop and bottom surfaces 56, 58 at the rear end 54. In the illustratedembodiment, the top and bottom surfaces 56, 58 can be generally planar.In another embodiment (not shown), the surfaces 56, 58 can be contouredto generally follow the corresponding contours of the foot member 10 andheel member 20. Preferably, the wedge 50 can be between about 40 and 60mm long, between about 30 and 55 mm wide, and between about 2 and 10 mmtall. The wedge 50 also preferably has a durometer of between about 60Aand 95A. More preferably, the wedge 50 has a durometer of about 85A. Theangle γ preferably varies between about one and seven degrees. Forexample, in one embodiment, the wedge 50 can have an angle γ of abouttwo degrees. In another embodiment, the wedge 50 can have an angle γ ofabout four degrees. In still another embodiment, the angle γ can beabout six degrees. In another embodiment, the angle γ can be about eightdegrees. In yet another embodiment, the angle γ can be about tendegrees.

FIG. 3 shows a top view of the prosthetic foot 100 illustrated inFIG. 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the posterior portion 14 a of thefoot member 10 is tapered relative to the anterior portion 12 a of thefoot member 10, so that the posterior portion 14 a is less wide. Forexample, the foot member 10 can have a width W that tapers toward therear end 14. In one preferred embodiment, the width W may tapergradually and continuously from the front end 12 of the foot member 10to the rear end 14, such as in the form of a curve. In another preferredembodiment, the foot member 10 can have a generally constant width Walong a portion of the length L and taper thereafter toward the rear end14. In still another embodiment, the foot member 10 can have a generallyconstant width W from the front end 12 to the rear end 14.

As shown in FIG. 3, in at least one embodiment, the prosthetic foot 100can have a foot member 10 that is split into multiple independent toemembers configured to flex substantially independently of one another atleast partially along their length. In the illustrated embodiment, thefoot member 10 is split into two independent toe members 10 a, 10 b. Forexample, the foot member 10 may comprise at least one longitudinal slot60 having a substantially constant width extending from the anteriorportion 12 a thereof towards a rear point proximal the posterior portion14 a of the foot member 10. In one embodiment, the slot 60 may extendunderneath the location of the adapter 30 when it's connected to thefoot member 10. In another embodiment, the slot 60 may extend partiallyalong the foot member 10 to a location in front of the anterior section32 of the adapter 30. In still other embodiments, the slot 60 may extendto a location proximal the anterior portion 12 a of the foot member 10.In the illustrated embodiment, each connector 18 connects each of theindependent toe members 10 a, 10 b to the heel member 20, as shown inFIG. 5.

FIGS. 4-5 illustrate a front view and a rear view, respectively, of theprosthetic foot 100 shown in FIG. 1. As with the foot member 10, theheel member 20 can be split into multiple independent heel sectionsconfigured to flex substantially independently of one another at leastpartially along their length. In the illustrated embodiment, the heelmember 20 is split into two independent heel sections 20 a, 20 b. Forexample, the heel member 20 may comprise at least one longitudinal slot62 having a substantially constant width extending along the length L′of the heel member 20 from the front end 22 thereof to the rear end 24.In another embodiment, the slot 62 may extend partially along the heelmember 20 from the front end 22 to a location near the rear end 24 ofthe heel member 20. In still other embodiments, the slot 62 may extendfrom the rear end 24 to a location proximal the front end 22 of the heelmember 20. Preferably, the prosthetic foot 100 has as many independenttoe members 10 a, 10 b as heel sections 20 a, 20 b. Each connector 18thus connects one of the toe members 10 a, 10 b to a corresponding heelsection 20 a, 20 b. Further details on split foot members and heelmembers can be found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,181,933 and 6,071,313, both ofwhich are hereby incorporated by reference.

As illustrated in FIG. 5, the adapter connector 36 comprises two boltsremovably connecting the posterior section 34 of the adapter 30 to theposterior portion 14 a of the foot member 10. In the illustratedembodiment, the adapter 30 comprises a pyramid-style adapter forconnection of a pylon or other prosthesis to the prosthetic foot 100.However, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that adaptersof other types may be used with the embodiments of the presentinvention. For example, a socket, tube clamp or pylon having an inclinedlower surface similar to the base 35 of the adapter 30 can be removablyconnected to the prosthetic foot 100. In a preferred embodiment, theaxis X coincides with a longitudinal axis of the adapter used. Forexample, the axis X would coincide with the longitudinal axis of thepylon, socket, or tube clamp. Additionally, the axis X is preferablysubstantially vertical when the prosthetic foot 100 is at rest. Asdiscussed above, the adapter 30, whether a pyramid, socket, tube clamp,pylon, or the like, can also be permanently attached to the foot member10 via, for example, an adhesive, a resin, or the like.

FIG. 7 illustrates another embodiment of the prosthetic foot 100 with anadapter 30′ removably connected to the posterior portion 14 a of thefoot member 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the adapter 30′ definesan edge 40′ at the anterior section 32′ thereof having a radius R′. Theradius R′ is preferably smaller than the radius R of the prosthetic footshown in FIG. 1, so that the curvature of the base 35′ is morepronounced. The illustrated embodiment is thus configured to provide agreater roll-up effect of the adapter 30′ onto the foot member 10 duringmotion of the prosthetic foot 100. The radius R′ can be selectivelyvaried to provide a desired roll-up effect. However, as discussed abovewith regard to the adapter 30, the base 35′ need not be curved or have aradius R′ for the adapter 30′ to roll-up onto the foot member 10. Asdiscussed above, the base 35′ can be generally flat, generally curved,or a combination thereof and still be adapted to roll-up onto the footmember 10.

FIGS. 8-11 show another embodiment of a prosthetic foot 200. Theprosthetic foot 200 has generally the same structure as the prostheticfoot 100 described above and is configured to operate in a similarmanner. Accordingly, similar components are identified with the samereference numeral, followed by a “″”.

As shown in FIGS. 8-9, the prosthetic foot 200 comprises a foot member10′″, a heel member 20′″ extending rearwardly from a point intermediatea front end 12′″ and a rear end 14′″ of the foot member 10′″, and anadapter 30′″ mounted to a posterior portion 14 a′″ of the foot member10′″. The foot member 10′″ has a length L′″ of between about 11 and 22cm, a height H′″ of between about 3 and 4 cm, a width W′″ between about4.5 and 6 cm, and a thickness T′″ of between about 1.5 and 6 mm. In theillustrated embodiment, the foot member 10′″ has a length L′″ of about13 cm, a height H′″ of about 3 cm, a width W′″ of about 5 cm, and athickness T′″ of about 3 mm. Similarly, the heel member 20′″ has alength D of between about 9 and 12.5 cm, a width E of between about 30and 55 mm, and a thickness τ′″ of between about 1.5 and 7 mm. In theillustrated embodiment, the heel member 20′″ has a length D of about 10cm, a width E of about 3.5 cm, and a thickness τ′″ that varies betweenabout 5 mm at the front end 22′″ and 3 mm at the rear end 24′″. Inanother embodiment (not shown), the heel member 20′″ may have a constantthickness τ′″. Likewise, in some embodiments, the foot member 10′″ canhave a variable thickness T′″ between the front end 12′″ and the rearend 14′″.

As best seen in FIGS. 8 and 10, in one preferred embodiment, theanterior portion 12 a′″ of the foot member 10′″ comprises at least twotoe members 10 a′″, 10 b′″. Said toe members 10 a′″, 10 b′″ arepreferably defined by at least one longitudinal slot 60′″ in the footmember 10′″ extending rearwardly from the front end 12′″. In theillustrated embodiment, the longitudinal slot 60′″ extends into the footmember 10′″ about 3 cm from the front end 12′″. However, the foot member10′″ can be configured to have a slot 60′″ extending further into thefoot member 10′″. In one embodiment, the slot 60′″ is adapted to receivea thong of a sandal or similar footwear. In another embodiment, the slot60′″ is adapted to receive a foot cover with a corresponding slotbetween the toe members 10 a′″, 10 b′″ to provide a more aestheticallypleasing foot cover.

In one preferred embodiment, as best shown in FIGS. 8-10, the prostheticfoot 200 also comprises a crepe portion 16′″ attached to the anteriorportion 12 a′″ of the foot member 10′″. As shown in FIG. 10, the crepeportion 16′″ has a front end 16 b′″ that preferably extends forwardly ofthe front end 12′″ of the foot member 10′″. Additionally, the crepeportion 16′″ also has a longitudinal slot 16 c′″ extending through thecrepe portion 16′″. Preferably, the slot 16 c′″ is configured to alignwith the slot 60′″ in the foot member 10′″. In the illustratedembodiment, the slots 60′″, 16 c′″ are offset from an axis Ycorresponding to the centerline of the foot member 10′″. In anotherpreferred embodiment, the slots 60′″, 16 c′″ can be aligned with theaxis Y.

As shown in FIG. 9, the adapter 30′″ has an elongated body 31′″extending between an anterior section 32′″ and a posterior section 34′″.The adapter 30′″ also has a base 35′″, at least a portion of whichcontacts the foot member 10′″ when the adapter 30′″ is connected to thefoot member 10′″. The adapter 30′″ also defines an edge 40′″ along thebase 35′″ at the anterior section 32′″. In the illustrated embodiment,the edge 40′″ curves at a radius R′″ relative to the base 35′″ such thatthe adapter 30′″ is configured to roll-up onto the foot member 10′″during motion of the prosthetic foot 200. The radius of curvature R′″ ispreferably between about 5 and 10 cm. In the illustrated embodiment, theradius of curvature R′″ is about 7 cm. However, as discussed above, thebase 35′″ need not be curved or have a radius R′″ in order for theadapter 30′″ to roll-up onto the foot member 10′″. In other embodiments,the base 35′″ may comprise generally flat portions or a combination offlat and curved portions, wherein the base 35′″ is adapted to moverelative to the foot member 10′″ during motion of the foot 200. Forexample, the base 35′″ may extend relative to the foot member 10′″ so asto define a longitudinal gap (not shown) therebetween. Additionally, asshown in FIG. 10, in one preferred embodiment, the body 31′″ of theadapter 30′″ tapers from the posterior section 34′″ to the anteriorsection 32′″.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 9, the adapter 30′″ is removablyattached to the foot member 10′″ via adapter connector 36′″. In oneembodiment, the connector 36′″ may comprise two bolts connecting theadapter 30′″ to the foot member 10′″. In another embodiment, theconnector 36′″ may comprise four bolts. In the illustrated embodiment, adistal connector 36 a′″ is attached to the posterior section 34′″ of theadapter 30′″ and a proximal connector 36 b′″ is attached to the anteriorsections 32′″. However, the proximal connector 36 b′″ is preferablydisposed a sufficient distance from a tip 44 of the adapter 30′″ toallow the adapter 30′″ to roll-up onto the foot member 10′″. In oneembodiment, the distance between the proximal connector 36 b′″ and thetip 44 is about 10% or more of the length of the adapter 30′″. Morepreferably, the distance between the proximal connector 36 b′″ and thetip 44 is at least about 20% or more of the length of the adapter 30′″.Still more preferably, the distance between the proximal connector 36b′″ and the tip 44 is about 30% or more of the length of the adapter30′″. In another embodiment, the distance between the proximal connector36 b′″ and the tip 44 is about 40% or more of the length of the adapter30′″. In the illustrated embodiment, the distance between the proximalconnector 36 b′″ and the tip 44 is about 35% of the length of theadapter 30′″. In another embodiment, the adapter 30′″ can be permanentlyattached to the foot member 10′″ via, for example, an adhesive, a resin,or the like.

In practice, the prosthetic foot 100 of FIGS. 1-11 advantageouslyprovides a fluid heel-to-toe movement as compared to other prostheticfoot designs. As a user proceeds from heel-strike to toe-off, theadapter 30 rolls-up onto the foot member 10, causing the posteriorportion 14 a of the foot member 10 to flex toward the anterior portion12 a. In the embodiment described in FIGS. 1-6B above, the roll-up isprovided because the adapter 30 is only connected to the foot member 10at its posterior section 34, leaving the anterior section 32 free tomove relative to the foot member 10. However, as described in theembodiment illustrated in FIGS. 8-11, the adapter 30′″ can be connectedto the foot member 10′″ at any location that allows the anterior section32′″ free to more relative to the foot member 10′″. For example, theadapter 30′″ can be connected at a point intermediate the anterior andposterior sections 32′″, 34′″ of the adapter 30′″.

With respect to the embodiments disclosed in FIGS. 1-11, the degree ofthe roll-up effect is due at least in part to the radius of curvature Rof the adapter 30. For example, the smaller the radius of curvature Ris, the more pronounced the curved surface of the base 35 is and thegreater the roll-up effect. The roll-up effect provides greater flexionof the foot member 10 than a prosthetic foot with a conventional adapter30, thus providing a more fluid foot motion. Additionally, the radius ofcurvature R advantageously effects the progressive stiffening of thefoot member 10 as the adapter 30 rolls-up onto the member 10. Theroll-up effect also provides more efficient energy storage and releaseduring heel-strike through toe-off. However, as discussed above, theadapter 30 need not have a base 35 with a radius R or a curved surfacein order to roll-up onto the foot member 10.

Another advantage of the prosthetic foot 100, such as the embodimentshown in FIG. 1, is that its low profile nature allows the prostheticfoot 100 to be used by amputees with long residual limbs as well asamputees with shorter residual limbs. The low profile nature of the foot100 allows it to be housed completely within a cosmesis 70 (see e.g.,FIG. 7) covering the prosthetic foot 100, advantageously providing amore aesthetically pleasing design.

Still another advantage of the prosthetic foot 100 of FIGS. 1-11 is theinclined nature of the foot member 10, as described above, which allowsthe member 10 to flex during motion of the foot 100. Moreover, theinclined posterior portion 14 a advantageously facilitates the flexionof the foot member 10 during roll-up of the adapter 30 thereon,resulting in increased flexion of the foot member 10. This is animprovement over conventional prosthetic foot designs (not shown) thathave a rear foot member portion generally horizontal relative to thesupport surface S, which do not facilitate said foot member flexion. Theinclined foot member 10 also allows the prosthetic foot 100 to have alower build height, in contrast, for example, with prosthetic footdesigns that use C-shaped springs and the like. However, the inclinedfoot member 10 advantageously provides sufficient build height tofacilitate access to the adapter 30.

Another advantage of the prosthetic foot 100 in FIGS. 1-7 is itsincreased strength and reliability relative to conventional designs.Specifically, the prosthetic foot 100 is advantageously rated for use inall impact levels and for amputee weights varying over a wide range. Forexample, in one preferred embodiment, the prosthetic foot 100 can beused by amputees weighing up to about 165 kg. Additionally, theprosthetic foot 100 is fabricated so that the foot member 10 is strongerthan conventional prosthetic foot designs while still being able to flexto provide efficient energy storage and release during motion of thefoot 100.

As discussed above, the adapter 30 shown in FIGS. 1-7 is preferablypositioned in the posterior 25% of the foot member 10 when the footmember 10 is disposed in the cosmesis 70. Said positioning of theadapter 30 advantageously provides increased deflection of the anteriorportion 12 a of the foot member 10. Said positioning of the adapter 30also advantageously allows the adapter 30 to be generally centeredrelative to an opening in the cosmesis 70 and facilitates the removal ofthe prosthetic foot 100 from the cosmesis 70. Additionally, the locationof the adapter 30 provides easier access to the adapter connectors 36.

For purposes of summarizing the invention and the advantages achievedover the prior art, certain objects and advantages of the invention havebeen described herein above. Of course, it is to be understood that notnecessarily all such objects or advantages may be achieved in accordancewith any particular embodiment of the invention. Thus for example, thoseskilled in the art will recognize that the invention may be embodied orcarried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage orgroup of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving otherobjects or advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.

The embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1-11 show the length L, L′″ of thefoot member 10, 10′″ substantially coinciding with the length of theprosthetic foot 100, 200 so that the foot member 10, 10′″ extends fromheel to toe of the foot 100, 200. However, the foot member 10, 10′″ neednot extend the full length of the prosthetic foot 100, 200. In someembodiments, the foot member 10, 10′″ can extend to a point rearward ofthe front end of the prosthetic foot 100, 200 and/or connect to anothermember (not shown) that extends to the front end of the foot 100, 200.The embodiments in FIGS. 1-11 also show the heel member 20, 20′″extending rearward from a point intermediate the front end 12, 12′″ andrear end 14, 14′″ of the foot member 10, 10′″. However, the heel member20, 20′″ need not extend from a point intermediate the length L, L′″ ofthe foot member 10, 10′″. In some embodiments, the heel member 20, 20′″may extend from the rear end 14, 14′″ of the foot member 10, 10′″. Inother embodiments, the heel member 20, 20′″ may extend from the frontend 12, 12′″ of the foot member 10, 10′″. In still other embodiments,the front end 12, 12′″ of the foot member 10, 10′″ may extend from apoint intermediate the front end 22, 22′″ and the rear end 24′″ of theheel member 20, 20′″, where the heel member 20, 20′″ is generallyparallel to the support surface S.

All of these aspects are intended to be within the scope of theinvention herein disclosed. These and other aspects of the presentinvention will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art fromthe appended claims and from the preceding detailed description of thepreferred embodiments having reference to the attached figures, theinvention not being limited to any particular preferred embodiment(s)disclosed.

1. In combination, an elongate foot support adapted for use in aprosthetic foot and a monolithic adapter mounted to a posterior portionof the foot support, the adapter comprising a pyramid verticallyoriented with respect to a support surface on which the foot rests, thepyramid extending along an axis at a non-perpendicular angle relative tothe base of the adapter, the adapter having a base with a lengthcontacting the foot support, said base being inclined alongsubstantially the entire length of the adapter from a rearmost end to afrontmost end of the adapter at a constant angle relative to the pyramidand to the support surface, the base in contact with the foot supportalong substantially the entire length of the adapter from the rearmostend to the frontmost end of the adapter during motion of the prostheticfoot through a complete gait cycle of the prosthetic foot, the basebeing monolithic with a curved portion at an anterior section of theadapter, the base defining an edge at the anterior section having aradius of curvature of between about 0.5 cm and 4 cm.
 2. The combinationof claim 1, wherein the anterior section is configured to roll-up alongsaid edge onto the foot support.
 3. The combination of claim 1, whereinthe edge curls upwardly toward the anterior section of the adapter. 4.The combination of claim 1, wherein the pyramid is a male pyramid. 5.The combination of claim 1, further comprising an elongate heel supportbelow the foot support and a resilient member positioned between theheel support and foot support.
 6. The combination of claim 5, whereinthe elongate heel support is connected to the foot support, and furthercomprising a slot between the heel support and the foot support rearwardof the connection between the elongate heel support and the footsupport.
 7. The low profile prosthetic foot of claim 1, wherein theadapter comprises a recessed surface extending at least partially aroundthe circumference of the adapter to thereby decrease the weight of theadapter.
 8. A low profile prosthetic foot comprising: a foot supportextending between a front end and a rear end and having an anteriorportion and a posterior portion, the posterior portion inclined at anangle relative to a support surface; and a monolithic adapter comprisinga pyramid vertically oriented with respect to the support surface, thepyramid extending along an axis at a non-perpendicular angle relative toa base of the adapter, the adapter mounted to the posterior portion ofthe foot support and having an anterior section, a posterior section,and the base, wherein at least a portion of the base contacts theposterior portion of the foot support, the base being inclined alongsubstantially the entire length of the adapter from a rearmost end to afrontmost end of the adapter at a constant angle relative to the pyramidand to the support surface, the base in contact with the foot supportalong substantially the entire length of the adapter from the rearmostend to the frontmost end of the adapter during motion of the prostheticfoot through a complete gait cycle of the prosthetic foot, the basebeing monolithic with a curved section at the anterior section of theadapter, the base defining an edge at the anterior section having aradius of curvature of between about 0.5 cm and 4 cm, the anteriorsection configured to move relative to the foot support.
 9. Theprosthetic foot of claim 8, further comprising a heel supportoperatively connected to the foot support.
 10. The prosthetic foot ofclaim 9, wherein the heel support is directly connected to the footsupport.
 11. The prosthetic foot of claim 9, further comprising aresilient member between the foot support and the heel support.